Position Type: Postdoctoral Position

Research Area: Pancreatic cancer, liquid biopsy, drug-delivery systems

Position Description: The laboratory of Dr. Genia Dubrovsky, M.D., is located at the University of Pittsburgh Hillman Cancer Center, within the Division of Surgical Oncology in the Department of Surgery. We have an immediate opening for a talented and passionate postdoctoral fellow/associate. The Division of Surgical Oncology’s primary goal is to develop novel methods for treating cancers and to translate these research findings into clinically applicable patient treatments. We are interested in recruiting a candidate with a PhD in the life sciences or other relevant disciplines for laboratory research that focuses on pancreatic cancer.

The post-doctoral research fellow will work on independent and collaborative projects, developing novel diagnostics and therapeutics for pancreatic cancer. With regard to diagnostics, our lab focuses on improving methods of liquid biopsy through the capture of cfDNA and exosomes. With regards to therapeutics, our lab focuses on novel drug-delivery systems to improve intra-lymphatic drug penetration in collaboration with the School of Pharmacy at the University of Pittsburgh. The successful applicant should have experience in molecular biology with specific skills in PCR, flow cytometry, and cell culture. Hands-on experience working with rodents is also beneficial, as we use a mouse pancreatic cancer model. A willingness to learn rodent surgical techniques, such as pancreatic duct ligation, is regarded favorably. The post-doctoral fellow will culture and prepare mouse pancreatic cancer cells for orthotopic injection, administer medications to animals, and harvest tissue and fluid for analysis. Assays will include ddPCR, flow cytometry, and IHC, among others.

Candidates who have an interest in developing new treatments with direct clinical applications for patients with pancreatic cancer are encouraged to apply. The qualified applicants will be required to conduct research, interpret results, troubleshoot assays, and prepare manuscripts. The applicant should have a strong command of the English language, good interpersonal skills, strong organizational skills, critical thinking ability, and good writing skills, as evidenced by first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals. Applicants who display humility and an eagerness, and ability to learn and become independent in running assays will be given preference. The applicant should also be proficient in basic computer software usage, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and statistical packages.

To be considered for this position, please provide a one-page statement of past, present, and future research interests and career goals; a current curriculum vitae; and contact information for three references when applying through Talent Center, Requisition 24006685.

Degree Requirements: PhD in the life sciences or other related discipline.

Position Location: Pittsburgh, PA